ATPN raises alarm over alleged impersonation, disputed membership drive amid leadership court battle
Maureen Aguta
The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) has cautioned members, stakeholders, and the general public against what it described as a misleading membership recruitment exercise allegedly being conducted under a disputed leadership claim by Mr. Ayo Arokoyo.
In a statement issued by the President of the association, Prince Femi Fadina, ATPN expressed concern over Mr. Arokoyo’s continued representation of himself as the National President of the association despite an ongoing court case concerning the organisation’s leadership.
According to Fadina, the matter remains before a competent court of law, making any claim to the office of National President legally contested and unresolved.
“The ATPN is a professional body governed by constitutional provisions, institutional values, and due process. It is not an organisation where leadership positions can be assumed through self-declaration or public pronouncements,” the statement said.
The association noted that any membership drive, recruitment exercise, or public representation undertaken under what it described as a controversial and unresolved leadership claim could mislead unsuspecting stakeholders and members of the public.
ATPN further expressed disappointment that at a time when the tourism industry requires strategic leadership, unity, and institutional stability, actions capable of creating confusion and division are being promoted.
“The leadership issue remains before the court, and all parties are expected to respect the judicial process. Any attempt to project authority or undertake official activities in the name of the association while the matter is pending undermines due process and risks creating unnecessary uncertainty within the tourism community,” the statement added.
The association therefore urged members, tourism operators, government agencies, development partners, and the wider public to exercise caution and refrain from participating in activities that could further complicate the ongoing legal process.
ATPN also called on all parties involved in the dispute to respect the sanctity of the court and avoid actions capable of damaging the image and credibility of the association before both local and international stakeholders.
Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional governance, professionalism, and institutional integrity, the association said it remains focused on promoting peace, unity, and the sustainable development of Nigeria’s tourism sector.
“While public narratives may generate temporary attention, the truth of any leadership claim will ultimately be determined through lawful processes.
ATPN remains committed to upholding the rule of law and preserving the integrity of the association,” the statement concluded.